Senior Class of 2025 celebrates Kindergarten Graduates

PESHASTIN – Cascade High School’s Class of 2025 made a visit to Peshastin-Dryden Elementary (PD) to take part in the Kindergarten graduation ceremony on June 6. 

This is the second year the CHS seniors have participated, creating a tunnel for the kindergarteners to walk through as they make their way to their seats.

“We tried it for the first time in the back [of the stadium], because we just wanted to show the kindergartners where their future is and remind the seniors where they started. And this year we're moving the tunnel to the field, so that the parents can be more part of it, and it's more full circle,” said PD Principal Emily Ross. 

For many of the CHS seniors, Peshastin-Dryden Elementary is where they started the academic journey. As they walked through the school grounds, they were surrounded by friendships that date back to kindergarten days, and greeted by former teachers who still recognized them.

“It's very nostalgic. And I don't know, it makes me happy, because I stayed in school and I'm graduating today. So yeah, I’m the first one graduating in my family, so it’s something to be proud of,” said CHS Senior Angel Avila-Tinoco, who attended PD.

After walking through their old campus, the seniors set up their tunnel next to the ceremony. As the young kindergarteners walked through, the seniors offered high-fives and cheered them on.

“They are so tiny and they're just beginning school, and we're done and going to university. It's like, really sad,” said CHS Senior Paola Ramirez-Bravo, a former PD student.

The former PD students, now CHS graduates, had some advice for the kindergarteners as they take their next step:

“Take advantage of every single opportunity that you have, and don't be afraid to make mistakes,” said CHS Senior Monique Robles.

Taylor Caldwell: 509-433-7276 or taylor@ward.media